As a solo performer (Guitar, vocals, footdrums) i bought the EGO mini to tighten up and add sustain to my tone. It did that very well.
I only have experience of a very cheap compressor before and never really heard the effect of that pedal. The EGO bites through and really adds alot. Brings your tone to life I would say.
I use compression as an 'always on' effect again to add clarity to my guitar tone. Having not tried the full sized EGO so I can not compare but the mini has the same functions. The knobs are close together but for me no problem as It is always on so I never really 'tweak it'
The small size means there is nothing not to like. I can not say if cheaper compressors are better or worse but I was happy to pay the price of a wampler. I have Euphoria overdrive and Pinnacle Distortion also. Both work amazing well with the EGO.